​​​​​​​​​Port city guides

What to see in Newhaven & Surrounding Areas

Whether you’re heading into England from France, or about to head out to the continent on our Newhaven-Dieppe route, Newhaven and the beautiful region of East Sussex in the south of England is well worth exploring.

Newhaven

This busy port town has several points of interest that make it worth stopping off before your journey ahead. The Seaford Museum, right on the coastline, is based in the Martello Tower which was constructed between 1806 and 1810. Boasting 5000 square feet of exhibitions and installations, it has everything from the prehistoric era to modern day, including a Victorian schoolroom, wartime memorabilia and information on local shipwrecks. Newhaven Fort, a 19th century fortification used to protect Newhaven port, was the largest defence work in Sussex and now also acts as a museum with fantastic displays and a lovely tea room. West Beach, the only sandy beach nearby, has an enormous seashore boasting incredible views. It’s difficult to access but head to the east side of East Pier to dip your toes in the surf.

Brighton

Just a 25 minute drive from Newhaven is the exciting city of Brighton. A favourite seaside resort for centuries, the streets are lined with Regency buildings that are brimming with heritage. One of the most famous attractions is the Palace Pier which dates back to 1899. Each night watch as 67,000 bulbs illuminate the pier, with rides, attractions, and even available for private hire, this 1722ft long pier is far more than just a jetty. The Royal Pavilion, former home to the Prince Regent, is a magnificent oriental palace turned museum. Take a tour of the banqueting room, great kitchen and gardens, as well as any other exhibitions on display. Other notable sights include the Clock Tower, situated in the city centre and topped with a golden ball, as well as the British Airways i360, a 162 metre high observation tower on the seafront.

Shopping

In the heart of Brighton’s North Laine is Snooper’s Paradise, a 7000 square foot vintage emporium set on two floors with everything from furniture to fashion, bracelets to beard balm. The Brighton Lanes are also amazing for a spot of retail therapy, boasting a range of independent boutiques where you’ll find amazing trinkets and unique items, as well as some impeccable eateries. Lewes Flea Market, less than 20 minutes from Newhaven, is open daily. You’re sure to find a number of one-off finds and treasures here, as well as some interesting collectables. For your high street favourites, head to Eastbourne Arndale Centre for shops including Topshop, Lush and Pandora.

Outdoors

Seven Sisters Country Park in East Sussex is made up of 280 hectares of breath-taking English countryside. The park takes its name from the chalk cliffs that line the coast here, which are certainly worth a visit, both for the view from atop the cliffs, as well as the from the sands below looking up. A serpentine river weaves through the park which sits just outside Friston Forest, another fantastic retreat into nature if you’re after rich woodland over pastoral grasslands. Just east from Newhaven Fort is Castle Hill Local Nature Reserve. Offering panoramic ocean views, this nature reserve is ideal if you’re looking to stay in Newhaven.

It’s always a proud moment when you’re recognised for your good work, we’re honoured to have been named again as the World and Europe's Leading Ferry Operator 2016 at the World Travel Awards. We have been Europe’s Leading Ferry Operator for 5 years running now, and the World’s Leading Ferry Operator for 6 years. ​​​